The release of the WA Strategic Trails Blueprint 2022-2027 is expected to guide the planning, development, and management of quality trails and trail experiences across the State.
Produced in a partnership between the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, the Blueprint puts an emphasis on trails that are inclusive and accessible.
It also promotes a shift in the trails industry towards deepening trail users’ connection to country, community, and culture, while ensuring continuing economic, environmental and social sustainability.
In a joint statement, the Departments said there had been significant funding for trails over the past three years which had created jobs and boosted regional economies in the State’s South-West.
Minister for Sport and Recreation, David Templeman said trails had been an important feature of the Western Australian landscape for more than 60,000 years.
“Some of our most-loved trails follow traditional pathways through country that have been used by Aboriginal people for generations,” Mr Templeman said.
“We now have a clear direction for the next five years to ensure that the future of trails in WA honours a deeper connection to country, community, and culture.”
He said that coupled with this, trails in all their forms provided a valuable outlet for exercise, play, challenge, recreation, and adventure, offering enormous mental and physical health benefits to society.
“The Government’s investment in trails over the past few years has developed hundreds of kilometres of hiking and mountain bike trails, which have helped people remain active and healthy throughout the pandemic,” the Minister said.
Information about the trails can be accessed at this PS News link.
